Notes

⁤Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that traces its history through the succession of twenty-four tirthankaras. ⁤⁤The religion is based on three main pillars: non-violence, non-absolutism, and asceticism. ⁤⁤Jain monks take five main vows, including non-violence and non-possessiveness. ⁤⁤Jainism has two major sub-traditions, Digambaras and Śvētāmbaras, with different views on ascetic practices and gender. ⁤⁤The religion has between four and five million followers, mostly residing in India, but also in Canada, Europe, the United States, and Japan. ⁤⁤Major festivals include Paryushana and Das Lakshana, Ashtanika, Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, Akshaya Tritiya, and Dipawali.

explanation per stanzas:
In Jainism, Tirthankaras are called the Jina or the conquerors of all instincts. There are 24 Tirthankaras. The term, ‘Tirthankara’ is a combination of ‘Teertha and ‘Samsara’. Teertha is a pilgrimage site and samsara is the worldly life. The one who has conquered the samsara and understood the true nature of the self to attain Kevala Jnana is a Tirthankara.

"Kevala Jnana" is a term from Jainism that refers to the highest form of knowledge or enlightenment.

Non-violence (Ahimsa): Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence, advocating for compassion and harmlessness towards all living beings. It encompasses avoiding violence in thought, speech, and action, promoting peace and respect for life in all its forms.

Non-absolutism (Anekantavada): Anekantavada teaches the acceptance of multiple perspectives and the acknowledgment of the complexity of truth. It encourages openness to different viewpoints, fostering tolerance, understanding, and respect for diverse beliefs and opinions.

Asceticism (Aparigraha): Aparigraha emphasizes non-attachment and simplicity, advocating for minimalism and renunciation of material desires. It encourages Jains to live a modest lifestyle, free from excessive possessions, to reduce dependence on material wealth.

Non-violence (Ahimsa): They commit to avoiding harm to any living being, extending their care even to insects and plants. This vow reflects their profound reverence for life and their dedication to peace and compassion.

Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha): They embrace a minimalist lifestyle, owning only what's necessary for survival and spiritual practice. Rejecting material attachments.

Jainism comprises two main sub-traditions: Digambaras and Śvētāmbaras, differing in their perspectives on ascetic practices and gender roles. With between four and five million followers primarily in India, but also in countries like Canada, Europe, the United States, and Japan, Jainism celebrates major festivals such as Paryushana, Das Lakshana, Ashtanika, Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, Akshaya Tritiya, and Dipawali.